FINMA's core values

Systematic supervisory activity

FINMA acts as a supervisory authority, protecting financial market customers and the operation of the Swiss financial sector. It performs its supervisory tasks using the instruments of licensing, monitoring, enforcement and regulation. In so doing, it pursues a risk-based approach that ensures continuity and predictability. FINMA fosters dialogue with supervised institutions, authorities, professional associations and other key institutions both nationally and internationally.

Independent decision-making

FINMA is functionally, institutionally and financially independent and performs a sovereign function in the public interest. It operates in an environment characterised by the diverging interests of various stakeholders. It preserves its autonomy and acts on the basis of its statutory remit, reaching its decisions independently and in a manner appropriate to the circumstances.

Responsible staff

FINMA's staff combine responsibility, integrity and the ability to deliver results. They are independent, highly flexible and adaptable. FINMA's staff are skilled and able to cope with resistance and challenging situations. They take account of changes in their operating environment and respond with concrete measures that are both timely and appropriate.